Combating the Winter blues

Every year winter seems to be lasting that little bit longer. We are now well into March and yet we are still wrapped in our winter coats and bracing ourselves for more snow and arctic blasts. The days are long and skies dull and grey. Is it any wonder that we experience lethargy and low mood during this time of the year. Low mood, albeit usually mild; can trigger a knock on effect which you may not be prepared for. It’s more difficult to eat well, sleep can be disrupted, exercise seems like an impossible ask, time seems to stand still yet even the most simplest of tasks can appear too mentally taxing. You’re probably wondering is this just a lack-lustre blip which will swiftly pass, or are you feeling depressed. You may be prescribed Anti-depressants by your doctor to ease these symptoms and whilst some situations can only be helped with medication, there is now a vast amount of people choosing to seek natural remedies, such as Essential Oils to help ease them through periods of mild depression, anxiety or SAD Syndrome (Seasonal Affective Disorder).
Due to their relaxing and anti-depressant qualities there are a number of Essential Oils that you can turn to in times of trouble that will help bring calm to the situation and enhance your mood.

Evoke HappinessSweet Orange – known as the “sunshine” oil due to its anti-depressant and mildly sedative attributes, is a jolly oil which gives a feeling of warmth as it’s inhaled. Try adding 2 drops to a vaporiser or burner blended with 2 drops of Frankincense (an oil which can have a calming effect on emotions).

Lift your MoodGrapefruit is mentally enlivening and will lift the mood without being sedative and is said to help combat lethargy and depression. When blended with the herbaceous scent of Clary Sage it becomes a soothing synergy which can help combat emotional stress and tension. Try adding 5 drops of each oil into a 10ml Grapeseed Rollette and apply to the wrists as required.Anxiety SootherBergamot is a powerful anti-depressant which provides an uplifting scent without being stimulating; great for treating anxiety and regulating the appetite. Suggested bath blend: Add 2 drops of Bergamot, 2 drops Lavender (for relaxation) and 2 drops Geranium (to balance hormones).

Emotional BalanceJasmine is one of the most popular anti-depressant oils known for its sweet, warming scent which helps combat lethargy, increase confidence and lift the mood. Combine with emotionally balancing Frankincense and uplifting Lemon Essential Oils it can make a great Massage Base. For a suggested Massage Blend mix 40ml Sweet Almond, 10ml Camellia, 30 drops Jasmine, 20 drops Frankincense and 10 drops Lemon. This wonderful blend can be used for a back and shoulder massage, or applied to directly to the wrists, temples and back of the neck as required.

Disclaimer: The information provided on our blog is for personal information and educational interest only. It is not intended to offer professional medical advice, diagnosis or cure for any medical condition or disorder. If you have any health concerns we would strongly advise you your consult your GP or health care professional. If you want to receive aromatherapy treatment we would advise making an appointment with a fully qualified aromatherapist who will conduct a full consultation of your health history and provide you with a tailored treatment programme. If pregnant or taking medication it is recommended to seek professional medical advice before using aromatherapy. The information we provide is on the basis that there are no known contra-indications to treatment. Purple Flame aromatherapy accepts no liability for the misuse of essential oils and other products or for reliance on the information we provide.Disclaimer: The information provided on our blog is for personal information and educational interest only. It is not intended to offer professional medical advice, diagnosis or cure for any medical condition or disorder. If you have any health concerns we would strongly advise you your consult your GP or health care professional. If you want to receive aromatherapy treatment we would advise making an appointment with a fully qualified aromatherapist who will conduct a full consultation of your health history and provide you with a tailored treatment programme. If pregnant or taking medication it is recommended to seek professional medical advice before using aromatherapy. The information we provide is on the basis that there are no known contra-indications to treatment. Purple Flame aromatherapy accepts no liability for the misuse of essential oils and other products or for reliance on the information we provide.